Showing posts with label destinations in Vietnam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label destinations in Vietnam. Show all posts

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Da Nang travel - Heaven for relaxation

Da Nang is the fourth largest city and one of top destinations in Vietnam as well. Apart from some tourist highlights and historical sights, the main reason for most tourists coming here is its proximity to the well-known Da Nang attractions such as handicraft villages, stunning beaches, and modern amusement parks... The ideal time to travel Da Nang is from May to August. With an airport having daily flights from across cities in Vietnam, Da Nang is easily accessible, along with other means of transportation. It is just over 760km from Hanoi, and almost 950km from Ho Chi Minh City. There are many good hotels in Da Nang to choose; no matter the type of accommodation you are looking for. Let’s check some of top tourists attractions in Da Nang to vary your holidays in Da Nang now.
Non Nuoc Stone
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village

Perhaps, no one coming to Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son Mountains) misses a chance to visit Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village. The traditional village was established by an artisan from Thanh Hoa (a province in north central coast of Vietnam) in the 18th century. Visiting the village, tourists will have the opportunity to explore the process of making sophisticated items and products from special stones in this land. The material of those products is marble stones exploited in Ngu Hanh Son Mountains. Emotionless stones carved by skillful hands of artisans become amazing products containing the soul of makers. The process undergoes many hard steps; yet, the admiration of enjoyers to these products supports local artisans to be closer to their job and to the village. Products of Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village are diverse from Buddha statues, statues of humans, animals and deities… to colorful and meticulous-made bracelets… In Da Nang tours to Ngu Hanh Son Mountains, tourists can freely choose souvenirs made of marble stones for family and friends.
Pham Van Dong Beach
Pham Van Dong Beach
Pham Van Dong Beach

Da Nang is so lucky when it is bestowed many world striking beaches. Swimming and playing on beaches in Da Nang have been daily routines of locals and tourists. On summer days, the number of locals and tourists coming to beaches rises significantly. And, Pham Van Dong Beach is one of the most visited beaches in Da Nang. The beach lies at the end of Pham Van Dong Street near East Sea Park. When going through Han River Bridge, down to Pham Van Dong Street, and then you will reach the wonderful beach. Among Da Nang beaches, Pham Van Dong Beach gains many big investments, and becomes the most modern public beach in Da Nang. Being the precious gift of the nature with turquoise waters, white smooth sand and useful auxiliary works, Pham Van Dong Beach becomes a “hot” attraction in the city. Near the beach, there are many hotels ready to serve such as Golden Sea Hotel and Monaco Hotel… Also, a series of restaurants and bars are built near the beach to serve all demands of tourists after swimming.
Asia Park Da Nang
Sun Wheel Da Nang
Sun Wheel Da Nang

Asia Park Da Nang is located in the southeast of the Memorial on 2/9 Street along the west bank of Han River near Tuyen Son Bridge, with an area of about 89ha. This is a leading amusement park in South East Asia with the huge investment of 4000 billion dong. The park has areas of cultural exchange area, roller coasters, Monorail, free-fall tower and speedy slides, and Sunwheel Da nang. Nine typical cultures of Asia as Japan, India, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, China, Nepal and Vietnam will be present at the cultural exchange area in the park. Each culture has featured miniatures for visitors to explore. Meanwhile, Monorail will help tourists to enjoy great view of the entire park. For those as fans of adventure games, free-fall tower and speedy sliders in Asia Park Da Nang are great choices. The most highlight of the park is Sunwheel Da Nang – one of 10 biggest wheels in the world.
These above mentions tourist places are some of many attractions in this city. To explore more and experience more, let’s book flights to Da Nang now. Your Vietnam holidays in Da Nang will be memorable and meaningful if having time to know more about local culture and people in this city.

Monday, July 13, 2015

Should not miss cities in Vietnam travel

Vietnam – an amazingly exotic and utterly captivating possesses a breathtaking natural beauty with incredible natural and cultural heritages that quicky becomes addictive. In Vietnam tours from north to south, each time dropping by cities in Vietnam is a new, unique and surprising experience. Such cities as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Dalat... are really worth visiting at any time during a year.

Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City has been also known as Pearl of Far East for a long time. It is the most bustling and developed city in Vietnam where there are many mysterious things to discovered. Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon is the biggest economic, political, and cultural center in Southern Vietnam. This is a large tourism center with famous historical relics and museums recording imprints of the resistance wars against French and American. Among 11 most famous museums in Ho Chi Minh City, War Remnants Museum is the best one. Besides, there are architectural works built in the colonial period satisfying the traveling desire of tourists in Saigon tours such as the City Hall, Saigon Opera House, Saigon Central Post Office, Nha Rong Wharf, Ben Thanh Market, and Independence Palace... Recently, such modern architectures as Diamond Plaza, Bitexco Financial Tower, and Saigon Trade Center beautify the city. In the outskirts of the city, there are famous Ho Chi Minh City attractions such as Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangrove Forest, and Thu Duc Stork Garden.

Hoan Kiem Lake
Hanoi Capital

Hanoi seems to be the first destination in any Vietnam tour packages. Hanoi - the Capital of Vietnam is the biggest political center of the country. Despite of some claims about services, Hanoi has been one of destinations where tourists want to come once in a life time. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a long-lasting traditional, historical and cultural city. Hanoi Old Quarter and Imperial Citadel appeal tourists with their ancient beauty, traditinal craft streets, and outstanding historical sites such as Temple of Literature. Meanwhile, modern architectures as Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel are seen as a symbol of the French occupation in Vietnam. The French street is portrayed by Hanoi Opera House and One Pillar Pagoda which are must-visit attractions in Hanoi. Other relics and attractions in Hanoi are Ho Chi Min Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, West Lake, Perfume Pagoda, and famous museums such as Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Da Nang City
Da Nang City

Da Nang is one of the most favorite tourism city to both domestic and international tourists in Vietnam travel. Apart from the beauty of majestic mountains, rivers, and sea, Da Nang satisfies tourists by amazing dishes, delicious seafood, and developed infrastructural system. Da Nang is one of 20 cleanest cities in the world. Located in the South Central Vietnam, Da Nang terrain is characterized by mountains, plains, and sea. Famous tourist attractions in Da Nang are Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, and Fantasy Park - the biggest one one in Asia. In addition, Da Nang has many wonderful landscapes such as Hai Van Pass, Son Tra Peninsula, and Marble Mountains. Furthermore, Da Nang is also surrounded by three World Cultural Heritages as Hue Citadel, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary. Annually, Da Nang often holds International Fireworks Competition which attracts a large number of tourists all over the world.

Truc Lam
Truc Lam

Dalat is dubbed a miniature Paris, a foggy city, love city, city of flowers, or pine city. The city is bestowed by the nature with moderate climate. The city has been always a favorite choice of local and international tourists. Dalat is the capital of Lam Dong Province, in Central Highlands Vietnam. With the height of 1,500 meters over the sea level, Dalat is an ideal place to take rest and enjoy holidays in Vietnam. Dalat City is well-known for attractions as Love Valley, Than Tho Lake, and Elephant Waterfall... The present-day Dalat is no longer untouched. Top points of interest in Dalat todays are Lang Biang Mountain, Bao Dai Palace, Tran Le Xuan Castle, Truc Lam Monastery, Tuyen Lam Lake, and Dalat Station...

NhaTrang Beach
NhaTrang Beach

Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa Province is the heaven on earth as well as one of the most interesting destinations in Vietnam. The city not just entices tourists by charming beaches, pristine islands, and spectacular bays, but also sophisticated French architectures and famous delicacies. Nha Trang City is the most famous beach city in Vietnam. Beaches in Nha Trang belong to coastal areas of Nha Trang Bay, Hon Tre Island, Hon Tam Island, Hon Mun Island, and Hon Chong Promontory which are stunning attractions in Nha Trang City. Nha Trang also puts tourist insight of Champa relics as Po Nagar Cham Towers, and inner city's famous tourist sites such as Dam Market, Long Hoa Pagoda, Mountain Church, and Cau Da Palace (Bao Dai Palace). In Nha Trang, tourists also have a chance to join outstanding Nha Trang Sea Festival with diverse entertainment activities.

Ho Coc beach
Ho Coc beach

Vung Tau City is a peninsula belonging to Ba Ria Vung Tau province, about 125km from Ho Chi Minh City. Tourists can coming here by bus, submarine or motorbike. Vung Tau has many beautiful beaches such as Bai Truoc Beach, Bai Sau Beach, Bai Giua Beach, Bai Ho Coc Beach, O Quan Beach, Long Hai Beach, and Bai Dau Beach. Here, tourists can take as many photos as they possible to make a marvelous photo collection, and enjoy seafood. Vung Tau is one of most visited beach cities in Vietnam. Bai Sau Beach in the city is often chosen to enjoy by most travelers. In addition, Vung Tau has famous attractions such as Jesus Christ's Statue and Sakyamuni Statue... along with some famous festive events of Nghinh Ong Festival and Dinh Co Festival.

Mui Ne Beach
Mui Ne Beach


Phan Thiet has many beautiful attractions, especially Mui Ne beaches. Mui Ne is also the place where there are more tourists coming to than other places in Phan Thiet. Tourists coming to Mui Ne are from all over the world, especially Russia. It is easy to recognize via instruction signs in Vietnamese - Russian. Phan Thiet is a beach city as well as the economic and cultural center of Binh Thuan Province. With such famous attractions as Mui Ne, Mui Ke Ga, Phan Thiet is an ideal destination for all tourists, especially those who adore beaches. In addition, inner Phan Thiet City, there is a Western street with featured European cultural space. Some other well-known attractions in Phan Thiet are Ong Hoang Pavilion, Mong Cam's House, Mui Ne Sand Dunes, Mui Ne Fishing Village, Cham towers, and Ta Cu Mountain…

These should-not-miss cities in Vietnam are top choices of tourists when traveling Vietnam. These cities are not just famous for stunning natural lanscapes and seascapes, but also a long-lasting traditional features reflecting via architectural works and daily life of locals. Gradually becoming one of top popular destinations in the world, Vietnam will be a worthy choice at any time.
Source: AloTrip

Sunday, July 5, 2015

Traveling Da Nang with just 100USD - Is it possible?

Da Nang is dubbed one of the 20 cleanest cities in the world, of course the cleanest city in Vietnam. Da Nang has changed significantly to become one of the most famous destinations in Vietnam and in the region. Therefore, in traveling seasons and festivals,Vietnam tour packages to Da Nang are always crowded with both domestic and international tourists. Some people claim that traveling Da Nang costs a lot of money, while others share that with just 100USD in hand they can explore almost the worthiest city to live in Vietnam. Let’s discover why with only 100USD, one can make wonderful holidays in Da Nang. 

Traveling expenses 
Da Nang
Da Nang International Airport

For those who depart from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, there are three main ways to approach Da Nang City: by road, by rail, and by air. If traveling by road, it is suggested to pick some reliable brands of bus such as Hong Long, Mai Linh, and Thuan Thao with the ticket about 19USD - 23USD. The time traveling from Hanoi/Saigon to Da Nang is about 18-20 hours. Traveling by train is one of popular means of transportation in almost Vietnam tours as its cheap price and safety. Depending on types of train, and classes, fares from Hanoi to Da Nang can fluctuate from 14USD to 30USD. It takes about 14- 20 hours to get to Da Nang from Hanoi. The fares will be higher from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, as the distance between two cities is bigger than that between Hanoi and Da Nang. The fastest way to reach the city of bridges is by plane. The airfares to Da Nang are different by airlines, ranging from 28USD to over 100USD. The fight duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. In addition, there are several direct internatinal flights to Da Nang International Airport from Guangzhou, Seoul-Incheon, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai-Pudong, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei and Tokyo-Narita. However, the international airfare is higher than that of domestic one. To save traveling expenses, it is highly recommended to travel by train. If book normal seat on train from Hanoi/Saigon to Da Nang, it costs only 14USD, and the travel time is about 18 hours. To get around Da Nang City, it is suggested to travel by motorcycle, bus, or taxi. Getting arond by motorcycle is convenient and easy to pop in famous attractions in Da Nang. There are services of motorcycle renting at the hotels or renting stores with rates from 3USD to 7USD/vehicle/day. If by bus, from Da Nang City, there are buses running to Hue (it takes 3 hours), and Hoi An (1 hour). And, by taxi, let’s catch reliable taxi brands such as Song Han, Tien Sa, Mai Linh, and Vinasun Gree. To save more traveling expense, it is suggested by travel by motorbike. To approach Hue and Hoi An, it is possible to travel by motorbike. For short distances around the city, it is suggested to travel by bus. Therefore, to travel inner the city, it costs about 14USD/pax. To sum up, the total traveling expense (get to and get around Da Nang) is about 41USD.

Accommodating expense 
Bamboo Green Central
Da Nang hotel

Da Nang is also famous for a wide range of hotels from budget to luxury ones. Whether inner the city or near the beach, tourists can easily to find a cheap but in-good-condition hotel to accommodate during their Vientam holidays in Da Nang. The hotel rate in Da Nang fluctuates from 10USD to even nearly 1000USD. However, with an affordable rate, it is highly recommended to stay at 1-2 star hotels, rating from 10USD to 16USD/night. A 2-day stay may cost about 23USD - 32USD. If traveling in a group of two, the cost may reduce a half. 

Eating expense 
Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo
Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo

Da Nang travel is not a spendy choice. Thus, travelers will not have to spend too much money on eating. Coming to Da Nang, travelers can choose hotels fitting their budget. If traveling by train, it will take 1 day and a half, which means you have 3 meals during this time. You can have some snack instead of a big meal. It will save your money. Each snack may cost 1.5USD. It will cost about 45-50USD for eating when traveling by train. Da Nang is well-known for delicious dishes but not expensive. The price of Da Nang delicacies is affordable. 10USD/day is acceptable amount to let a stomach full. The eating cost for 2 days is about 15-20USD. In total, the eating cost is about 20-25USD. 

Visiting expense 
Hoi An old town
Hoi An town

It is said that Da Nang can be discovered in only 01 day. In fact, it is not. If having more time (3-5 days), almost interesting places in Da Nang City can be explored, and many delicacies can be tasted. There are many attractions in Da Nang, or destinations nearby to drop by such as Hoi An and Hue. The fee for visiting Hoi An Ancient Town is about 4USD/person, fare for entering Da Nang Asian Park is about 2.3USD. It costs about 14USD to visit Son Tra Peninsula, and 2.3USD to Mable Mountain (Ngu Hanh Son Mountain)... If having more time and budget, you can pop in Ba Na Hills. The entrance ticket is about 25USD. If travelers want to visit Cu Lao Cham Island, it is recommended to travel in group. The fee is about 18-22USD/ person. Thus, the minimum expense is about 15USD. With about 50USD, you can visit all famous Da Nang attractions and nearby destinations in Vietnam tour packages. In short, the total expense is about 100USD. With only 100USD, you totally can coming to Da Nang - one of the most beautiful tourist cities in Vietnam.

Sunday, June 14, 2015

3 affordable ways to enjoy Halong Bay seaplane

Halong Bay – A Natural World Heritage – is one of the most popular destinations inVietnam. Being bestowed by The Nature majestic and amazing landscapes and seascapes, Halong Bay captivates millions of globetrotters to come here and admire the treasure of the nature. Halong Bay is regarded as the heaven on earth. Exploring and contemplating Halong Bay through cruise tours are not enough. Only by joining a Halong Bay seaplane tour can travelers enjoy all the breathtaking scenery of the bay. Usually, there are several ways to approach Halong Bay and enjoy a seaplane tour: by plane or by road. To renew the journey, apart from traveling by road, travelers can choose to travel by seaplane. Depending on the demand, conditions and time, travelers can selects of the following options.
Option 1: Well-off trips
floating village in Halong Bay
 floating village in Halong

To save the time in Vietnam tour packages in moving from Hanoi to Halong and vice versa, travelers can book flights from Hanoi to Halong. Each day, there are two flights departing at 9:00 and 12:45. Depending on different schedules, travelers can choose the morning or afternoon trips. From Hanoi City center, tourists travel to Noi Bai International Airport by taxi, and check-in at Counter No.10 in Lounge A. The duration flight from Hanoi to Halong is about 60 minutes, 15 minutes of which, passengers will enjoy seaplanes in Halong from the height of 500 - 3,000m. Thousands of islets and islands emerging on the surface of turquoise water will appear in front of passengers' eyes. Then, the seaplane will land in Tuan Chau Island. The Halong - Hanoi seaplane flights will depart at 11:30 and 16:00 every day. However, travelers often stay longer in Halong Bay. They book Halong Bay cruise tours to explore the bay for 3 hours and have lunch on boat. Travelers will have an unforgettable memory with Asian - Europe lunch amid the spectacular scenery, admiring the amazing cave, and go kayaking... It takes at least one day to complete the tour. The total cost is about 735USD (traveling, eating, and cruise).
Option 2: An affordable travel expense
Tuan Chau ferry
Tuan Chau ferry

To save more, travelers can book flights from Hanoi toHalong, and come back Hanoi by road. The schedule of flights from Hanoi to Halong Bay is the same as that in round-trip flight. Travelers can freely to visit and explore after Halong seaplane landing. The nearest place for entertainment is Tuan Chau tourist area. From the landing are, travelers take taxis to Tuan Chau. It takes about 14 USD to buy entrance ticket. Here, there are many interesting activities and programs such as performances of circus, dolphins, crocodiles, and fountain music... Tourists can also visit the outdoor playground and take part in some games such as windsurfing, canoeing, and parachuting... Tuan Chau culinary area is also suitable place for tourists to have lunch without traveling far away. You will enjoy various dishes and rich with a price just from 7USD. In late afternoon, tourists can call a taxi to travel from Tuan Chau to National Highway 18 to catch the coach to come back Hanoi. It cost about VND 100,000/pax (5USD). It takes at least one day to enjoy. The total cost is about 9 million dong (more than 400USD), including eating and traveling.
Option 3: As cheap as possible
Halong Bay
Halong Bay

Normally, tourists often want to save money to travel more in Vietnam tours. The best way to not have to spend too much money, but still be able to enjoy seaplane tours in Halong Bay is traveling by coach or by private vehicles, and register to join a 25-minute scenic flight tour. From Hanoi, travelers take a coach to Quang Ninh at My Dinh, Gia Lam, Luong Yen Stations, stop at Tuan Chau, and then take a taxi to the port. And, if traveling by private vehicles, you will drive along National Highway 18. Seaplane services in Halong will take off from Tuan Chau Port and return the starting point after finishing the itinerary around the islands of Halong Bay. There are three flights per day, departing at 10:30, 14:00, and 14:40. Depending on time arriving in Tuan Chau and the time of flight, travelers can have lunch before or after the seaplane tours. At night, tourists often stay at a gueshouse or hotel in Bai Chay. It costs from 17USD/room. It takes at least two days. The total cost is about 6 million dong (more than 275USD), including eating and traveling.

Travelers should present early at the airport, as the counter will be closed 25 minutes before the departure time. The maximum weight of baggage is 20kg. On holidays, the fare of seaplane will be increased more. Travelers can change departure time, but depending on the available seats.

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Tips for traveling Halong Bay in summer

With thousands of majestic and interesting islands and islets bestowed by the Nature, Halong Bay – The Natural World Wonder is always praised by international press and voted in top best places to cruise in the world, or in top of the most romantic destinations in the world. Summer is an ideal time to travel Halong Bay. From May to September, the weather in this bay is suitable to enjoy sunbathing on white smooth sandy beach, or immersing in the turquoise and cool waters. As being one of the most attractive destinations in VietnamHalong Bay possesses spectacular and overwhelming natural landscapes and seascapes.
Halong Bay Cruise
limestone mountains

There are many interesting things to do in Vietnam tour packages to Halong Bay. For example, tourists can book Halong Bay cruise overnight tours. In these tours, tourists have chances to enter deeper in the bay and explore more. It is no easier to contemplate the wonderful view of the bay than sitting on the deck of your cruise or by the window of cabin. All marvelous scenes of the bay at sunrise or sunset will present in front of your eyes. And, it is the time to take as many photos as possible. In addition, visiting Cua Van Fishing Village – one of the most beautiful fishing village in the world will be a memorable experience in Halong Bay tours. The fishing village remains its ancientness, elegance, and long-lasting traditions of fishing life in Halong in particular and in Vietnam in general. Amid the majestic scenery of the bay, Cua Van emerges beautifully with small cobbled roads, rustic floating houses, and colorful boats’ roofs.
Floating Village
Cua Van Village

Also, kayaking to explore every corners of Halong Bay will bring exciting and unforgettable moments in Vietnam tours to the wonderful bay. Tourists can freely kayak around the bay and reach to places where big boats cannot. That will be so amazing when discovering untouched and unnamed islets here. Coming back to the cruise and admire the sunset at the bay will be an experience that you cannot forget in your life. The rooftop of cruise is the best place to contemplate. The entire scenery of the bay will appear so closed and attractive. It seems so easy to touch the “fire ball” hiding gradually under the horizon line. The atmosphere is warmer and fresher. And, enjoying Europe – Asia cuisine with international standard and admiring the night view in the bay will be a romantic memory for tourists, especially those who are in their honeymoon.
Sung Sot Cave
Sung Sot Cave

To enjoy interesting Halong Bay tours in Vietnam holidays this summer, do not forget to bring the essentials to make your trip smooth. It is necessary to bring eyeglasses, sunglasses, contact lens and solution. Secure itineraries, tickets and any reservation confirmations in an easily accessible location such as a day pack. For beach days, pack two swimsuits, one beach cover-up or large T-shirt. Pack a light sweatshirt or sweater for chilly mornings and evenings, and a lightweight nylon jacket if there is a probability of rain in the forecast. Be aware of Jelly Fish. During summer, especially in May, June, July, before going to swim, you should ask the guide or captain for advice because it is time when the poisonous jellyfish are most active. Jelly Fish mostly does not cause too much trouble but popular symptoms such as hives, and rashes…
Aclass Opera Cruise
sundeck

It is highly recommended for alternative tours in case of bad weather. Perhaps, the cruise trip could be postponed, shortened or canceled due to unexpected bad weather without prior notice. Therefore, tourists should be ready for alternative tours to Hanoi such as Hanoi City tours, tours to Trang An (Ninh Binh), joining cooking class, or simply staying in a hotel in Halong City, and then cruise when the weather condition is suitable and boat is available.

Monday, April 20, 2015

24-hour romantic Hue day tours

With gentle Perfume River and vestiges of feudal dynasties, Hue Citadel never fails to attract tourists all over the world. Spending a whole day in Hue City will be a wonderful experience on feeling thoroughly about one of the most ancient destinations in Vietnam. The schedule of the adventure in the ancient city should be started with a breakfast bearing the local tastes, and then walking to enjoy the serenity. In Vietnam tours around Hue, tourists often begin their day with a bowl of Bun Bo Hue (Hue beef noodle). This is one of the most famous dishes of Hue cuisine. That will be fantastic when enjoying the dish in its original place, which might be different from versions in other localities. A hot bowl of Hue beef noodle will bring more energy to tourists before exploring the city. If there is no luxury of time to explore every corner of the city for several days, tourists can fulfill their Hue day tours in 24 hours with the following top things to do.
City of Hue
City of Hue

Let’s start Hue city tours by visiting royal tombs in Hue Citadel. Hue Citadel is located in the north of Perfume River with an area of 500ha. Here is the administrative and political center of Nguyen Dynasty and royal living place of emperors and lords as well. Hue Citadel includes the citadel and Forbidden Purple City. In 1993, Hue Citadel was recognized as a Cultural World Heritage by UNESCO, which brought the pride to Vietnamese people. There are a number of royal tombs in the citadel. Three most famous ones are Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Tu Duc Tomb.
Minh Mang Tomb is the first stopover to drop by. The architectural work was built in 1840 as the rest-in-pea place of Minh Mang Emperor. The Minh Mang tomb measures 18ha; and the "penalty area" surrounding the tomb is about 475ha wide. The general structure is symmetrical balance surrounded by a Shinto line (belonging to Shintoism) exuding the dignity. Besides, along the walking road around the tomb, there are lush green trees and some pavilions to take rest and admire landscapes such as Dieu Ngu, Nghenh Phong Pavilion, Tuan Loc Terrace, Quan Lan, and Hu Hoai Pavilion... The next stopover is Khai Dinh Tomb. It is the mausoleum of the 12th Emperor of Nguyen Dynasty - Khai Dinh Emperor. The tomb was constructed in 1920 under the control of Le Van Ba, a high-rank court of Nguyen Dynasty. Compared with previous emperors' tombs, that of Khai Dinh Emperor has a modest scale, but it took more time to build. The tomb is the combination of many schools of architecture such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Roman, and Gothique... These features are reflected meticulously in the architecture.
Xung Khiem Ta
Xung Khiem Ta

Last but not least, it is the tomb of Tu Duc Emperor. The tomb is an architectural complex. The work has a unique and complicated architectural style reflected through the Bat Trang bricked walkways running from Vu Khiem Gate, passing Khiem Cung Mon Gate or passing a three-level stone row that leads to Khiem Cung Mon Gate. At noon, it is recommended to stop at the south bank of Perfume River and enjoy Nam Pho Banh Canh (Nam Pho noddle soup). This dish is the combination of soft rice noodles added by crab pies and meat, creating a tasty sweet flavor of broth. A bowl of this dish costs about 10,000 - 15,000 VND.
After taking a rest, let’s vary the day tour by visiting Thien Mu Pagoda. Thien Mu Pagoda was constructed in 1601 on Ha Khe Hill on the left bank of Perfume River. Up until now, the pagoda remains its inherent majesty, purity and antique. The highlight of tours in Hue is dropping by Tu Nhan Tower, later changed as Phuoc Duyen Tower. The work was built as the order of Thieu Tri Emperor. It is 21 meter high with 7 floors in front of the pagoda's gate. It is one of typical symbol of the city.
Minh Mang tomb
Minh Mang tomb

Vietnam tour packages in Hue will not be completed if coming and missing to taste Com Hen (rice with mussel). Com Hen is a famous local dish of Hue cuisine. That is an ideal option for dinner. The ingredients of the dish consist of rice, salads, peanuts, sesame, shrimp sauce and mussels. All creates a unique and tasty flavor. Enjoying the catchy dish will help tourists have more experiences on the local cuisine. After dinner, taking a Perfume River cruise is a fantastic idea. At night, Perfume River becomes more romantic and elegant. This is the time for tourists to get on a boat, enjoy a poetic river tour, and admire the serene local life. During the time of sitting on boat, listening to beautiful Hue folk songs and enjoying cool breezes will be unforgettable memories in the day tour.
Truong Tien Bridge
Truong Tien Bridge


In the rest time of the day, trying to eat some sweet soup and then going for a walk will be interesting experiences in Hue. The sweet soup world in Hue possesses different flavors and colors. There are many kinds of sweet soup that you could not remember all their names. This is the one of the most interesting snacks releasing your hunger at night. Walking to enjoy serene life of Hue City along Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street near the bank of Perfume River at night or popping in shopping places to buy souvenirs and specialties for family and friends will definitely leave memorable moments in tourists’ mind. Before ending the tour, do not forget to drop candle flowers on Perfume River and contemplate lines of shimmering candle flowers floating on the river. That image will never fade in your memory about attractions in Hue.

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Discover Con Dao Island in early summer days

Con Dao Island – once the “Hell on earth” in the past – now becomes one of the most attractive destinationsin Vietnam. Con Dao Island is a group of 16 islets. The largest island is known as Con Son. Con Dao was once a prison island jailing a large number of political prisoners under the French colonial empire many forms of tortures and punishments. Besides having an interesting history, Con Dao is also an island of immense natural beauty with forested hills, deserted sandy beaches and extensive coral reefs for some excellent diving. Do not forget the following top 10 things to do when traveling Con Dao Island in your 2015 summer Vietnam holidays.
Visiting Con DaoPrison
Former Con Dao Prison
Con Dao Prison

From 1862 to 1975, Con Dao was known as a brutal prison for those who fought against the French colonialism and the former Saigon regime. To learn somewhat more about the historical Con Dao Island, as well as to feel the sense of loss that revolutionaries in the past had to undergo, tourists never miss to visit Con Dao Prison system which is now become the museum of Con Dao with heroic ruins of Tiger Cages, Hang Duong Cemetery, and fierce jail system... Con Dao Prison is one of most visited attractions in Con Dao and is recognized as one of the fiercest prisons in the world.
Dropping by Lady PhiYen Temple
Nestled on the bank of Ot Stream (Pepper Stream), Lady Phi Yen Temple, also known as An Son Temple, has been an important point of worshiping in the spirit of Con Dao people. For the locals, it is a sacred temple associated with a tragic story of a talented, virtue and patriotic woman. After her death, local people mourned and built a shrine to commemorate her. In 1861, after occupying the island, the French decided to remove the entire island’s population to the mainland to build a prison in the island; therefore, the temple gradually became crumbling. In 1981, local people on the island rebuilt a spacious temple on the old ground and worship up until now. Todays, in Vietnam tours to Con Dao Island, Lady Phi Yen Temple is an indispensable stopover.
Visiting Vo Thi SauTomb at night
Vo Thi Sau Tomb
Vo Thi Sau Tomb

That will be a great “challenge” for almost anyone to visit a tomb at mid-night. However, this is one of the most interesting experiences in Con Dao tours. Tourists often share their experiences on popping in Vo Thi Sau Tomb at mid night. Unlike the thought of major people that there is no one coming to the cemetery of Vo Thi Sau – a famous heroine of Vietnam at night, it is the fact that, mid-night is the time when the historical site welcomes tourists most. Stalls around the cemetery are always shined with light to serve tourists.
Riding a bike along Con Dao Beach road
Con Dao
Con Dao

The beauty of Con Dao can be described by one word – Perfect. It is because the island is bestowed by The Nature with all best criteria of a wonderful beach. To feel the amazing beauty of beaches in Con Dao Island, and enjoy the fresh air of early morning on the island as well, you should rent a bike and ride along the beach of Con Dao. With this interesting experience, you will be surely enchanted by pristine landscapes here; on one side, it is the vast blue sea, and the other is covered by green and majestic mountains, forming myriad sexy scenery.
Con Dao diving
Beaches in Con Dao are among the best diving and snorkeling places in Vietnam. The coral is relatively untouched and very impressive, with giant coral heads. The marine life includes turtles, rays, giant barracuda, cuttlefish, cobia, and dugongs as well as a whole host of tropical reef fish. Con Dao includes many smaller islands such as Bay Canh Island, Tai Island, Tre Island, Trung Island, Trac Island, and Cau Island… There are many choices to dive and discover vivid coral reef here. The island is the convergence of coral reefs with the highest density in Vietnam. Now, there are many diving tours in Con Dao with the average price from 500,000 VND including necessary devices.
Exploring Ong Dung Beach
Ong Dung Beach is to the north of town. Ong Dung Beach is seen as a charming and ideal beach of Con Dao National Park. Coming here, tourists can admire and immerse into turquoise and warm waters, colorful untouched natural scenery of the flora and fauna system. It will take about 1 hour to walk along roads in the forest to reach Ong Dung Beach, which may make tourists exhausted, but the tiredness will disappear when approaching the beach; the excitement will appear instead. The turquoise waters of Ong Dung Beach will be a fantastic award for all tourists’ effort in Vietnam tour packages to Con Dao.
Fishing at night
The sea area of Con Dao is located in the South China Sea which possesses a large number of seafood, promising an interesting off-shore trip. The most ideal area to go fishing is Nhat Beach near Love Hill in Con Dao Island. According to “professional” fishermen, the best time to go fishing is when the night falls.
Stopping by Bay Canh Island
Bay Canh Island
Bay Canh Island

Located in the east of Con Dao Island, Bay Canh Island is covered by a primitive forests and mangrove forests belonging to island tropical ecosystem with 882 flora species and nearly 150 fauna species. Coming here, tourists will have chances to dive and admire colorful coral reef, fish, and other marine creatures living on coral reefs. The coastline of Bay Canh Island is long and pristine. It has a simple and familiar beauty, which makes tourists feel peacefully in the serene atmosphere.
Tripping to turtle sanctuary
With an area of about 14,000 ha of water, Con Dao Island has a large turtle sanctuary. Annually, in breeding season from April to September, there are thousands of turtles coming here to spawn. Witnessing and recording the moment when turtle digging and spawning is an interesting experience. Do not miss the second-to-none chance in Con Dao tours.
Staying in a Con Dao resort
Six Senses Con Dao
Six Senses Con Dao


The peace and serenity in a resort in Con Dao will make the island be the right place for those who desire to relax in a luxurious setting, experience a slow life, and escape the busy routine and habits. Traveling Con Dao Island, tourists will have many choices to take rest in one of beautiful hotels and resorts, fitting different needs of every tourist.

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Sapa hotels booking tips

How to find a nice hotel in Sapa has been one of frequent asked questions when traveling Sapa. Sapa has been one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam. The most important thing in Vietnam tours to Sapa in particular and traveling in general is selecting a suitable accommodation. As being one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Vietnam, Sapa hotels are being improved and developed to meet all demands of tourists. So, how to choose the most suitable hotel to stay during your Sapa travel? Belows are some useful tips for booking Sapa hotels
Sort hotels 
sapa-view-hotel-exterior
Sapa View Hotel

Normally, hotels in Sapa are categorized into many types from budget to luxury to meet demand of tourists to have an economical and ideal Sapa tour. Hotels in Sapa are divided from 2-star to 5-star hotels. The more star you choose, the more you have to pay. Normally, the average rate of Sapa hotels fluctuates from 250,000 VND - 3,500,000 VND. The quality of service at these hotels in Sapa is put in the first priority to serve tourists. 
Book online or not 
victoria-sapa-resort-spa
Victoria Sapa Resort and Spa

It is noted that the Internet rate of hotels is lower than published rate at the hotel. Tourists should consider, contact booking online hotel website to be consulted, refer price, and choose suitable time to travel Sapa, which matches your plan. You should refer skills of searching information about information of basic services. Tourists should understand more about services and benefits, extra services, and know exact charge whether booking Sapa online or offline. To avoid risks, tourists should have a careful preparation when making reservation hotel which does not have some services that you need. If booking online, tourists should make room reservation early to avoid rooms being occupied during holiday seasons (Vietnam Lunar New Year, and other national holidays) 
Book via reputable organizations
 
bamboo-sapa-hotel-room
Bamboo Sapa Hotel

If you do not have experiences and skills on traveling, the best advises refer your friends' experiences, or consultancy of reliable organization. If receiving advice from travel organizations, tourists will be provided with full information about hotels, which will support tourists in selecting, planning, and booking hotel suitable to budget and traveling purposes. By referring advice of travel organizations, tourists can be provided with incentives of organizations and the hotel you choose, as the organization is parallel partner of the hotel. Moreover, todays there are many most-visited forums of global backpackers or reputable travel websites providing almost information about traveling a specific destination. You can become a member in that forum to create topic and discuss with other members who have experiences on your concerns. If you do not exact the name of hotel where you want to stay, it will be more convenient and easier for tourists to search for the most suitable accommodation in Sapa by providing information about place, star, room rates… These mentioned above tips on booking hotels in Sapa are provided will help tourists to prepare well for Vietnam travel plan to Sapa. Tourists can consult the booking hotel online site of AloTrip - A famous and reliable travel company to check and compare hotel prices and book with easy and convenient payment form. 

Author Bio: 

Nguyen Manh Dung is manager of AloTrip International Limited Company.Alotrip.com includes all web pages under or forming part of the domain name or any other AloTrip branded web pages. They provide travelers all necessary information about travel in Vietnam as well as Indochina. Besides, them three official websites vietnamairlines.travelvietnamtour.alotrip.com and vietnamvisa.alotrip.com will offer tourist all needed services and procedures to have a perfect journey.